𝐑𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐇Ā𝐕𝐀

CHAPTER 69

"Aryaa, is something wrong ?" Bela asked, as she ornamented the hair of Dhisana.

As the sun slowly peeked through the windows, casting a gentle glow upon the room, she noticed the faint signs of distress etched on Dhisana's face. The usually radiant and joyful expression of the Mleccha princess was replaced by subtle signs of sadness and fatigue.

However, Dhisana remained silent, her lips seemed to be sealed shut. She didn't say a thing, she just shook her head in a 'no'.

"Rajkumari, forgive me if I overstep my boundaries, but I can't help but notice that something troubles your heart." Bela said, willing and wanting to offer solace to the princess.

"It's nothing." Dhisana said with a distant gaze.

The handmaiden observed the subtle sense of sorrow that lingered on the delicate face of the princess.

"You do know you can share anything with me." Bela told.

Dhisana looked at her, and for a fleeting moment, she contemplated confiding in the handmaiden, knowing that her unwavering loyalty and discretion would cloak her troubles in an invisible shield. But then decided against it, for it was a very vulnerable matter between her and her husband.

"I appreciate your concern Bela, but this burden I carry is one that only my heart can bear. You have been a constant source of support, but this is a personal matter, a journey I must embark on alone." She said.

Bela nodded, her gaze brimming with understanding and compassion. She respected the princess's wishes, recognizing the personal matters. Silence pervaded the room as she finished getting Dhisana ready.

Suddenly there was a knock on the door.

"Dhisana ?" The voice of Draupadi came from outside. Dhisana went towards the door and opened it.

But the moment Draupadi's gaze fell on her the smile on her face dropped seeing the distressed countenance of Dhisana.

"Did something happen ?" Draupadi asked concerndly, as she got hold of Dhisana's hand.

"Fight with husband." Bhanumati said coming there with Chandramukhi, sly expressions adorned both their faces.

Draupadi looked at them, and then at Dhisana who shifted her gaze uncomfortably, for she knew it Bhanumati knew it, then she would've gossiped about it with the rest.

"Well, we all occasionally have disagreements with our husbands. Let's not engage ourselves in a couple's personal matter." Draupadi said in a firm voice.

"True. Let's not trouble poor Dhisana much. She's already troubled by her husband." Chandramukhi said

"What brings you here ?" Dhisana asked, diverting the topic.

"Well, today is the feast in your honour. We were gathering our jewels, I thought to give you some of my own. Since...." Bhanumati looked at the minimal jewellery of Dhisana, "You know." She said.

"I thought we were here to invite her to apparel selection." Draupadi said.

"That too. But since seeing her outfit, I couldn't help but notice she doesn't have much jewellery to wear. I'd be happy to offer mine." Bhanumati said with a smirk.

Dhisana's heart sank as she stood in the shadow of Bhanumati's mockery. She forced a weak smile, hiding her disappointment and hurt feelings beneath her graceful demeanor.

"I think apparel selection can wait. Let's call upon some jewellers first to buy jewelleries." Draupadi said.

"Whatever suits you." Chandramukhi said folding her hands.